VU Care Leavers Grant

Apply online for the grant

If you are enrolled in a TAFE certificate or diploma, and you have experienced out-of-home care, you may apply for our Care Leavers Grant.

Apply for the grant

We are excited to announce a new grant opportunity specifically designed to support students who have experienced out-of-home care in pursuing their educational and career aspirations.

At VU, we understand the unique challenges that care leavers may encounter, and we are committed to providing the financial assistance to help you succeed in your course.

This grant is open to students enrolled in any TAFE certificate or diploma program.

About the grant

The grant can be used to support your educational journey and assist with reaching your goals. It is not awarded based on academic performance. Instead, it is offered to students with the greatest need, who can use the funds to overcome barriers to achieving their goals. 

Funds can be used for: 

  • professional services such as psychologist, psychiatrist, personal trainer, career coach, mentor, mental-health coach, or child minding
  • participation in learning and education
  • purchase of textbooks and other out-of-pocket study expenses
  • financial assistance while you are on placement
  • purchase of corporate wardrobe, technology etc. required for a new career. 

Please note that the VU Care Leavers Grant does not cover tuition fees or student amenities fees (SSAF).

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must meet these criteria:

  • Australian citizen, Australian Permanent Resident, NZ citizen, holder of a Permanent Humanitarian Visa or holder of a Temporary Protection Visa
  • Not be in receipt or have previously received a standard VU Access Scholarship
  • Be undertaking a full-time or part-time TAFE course at Victoria University 
  • Have experienced out-of-home care or previous involvement with DFFH (Department of Families, Fairness and Housing) 
  • Be engaged with or will engage with TAFE Student Support Workers or other VU Wellbeing Services to achieve study, career or personal goals

Value

The value of the grant will be determined by the evidence provided in your application, and can be accessed as a one-time payment.

Applications

Applications will be accepted online through the VU Scholarships Portal (via the Admissions Centre).

All questions must be answered in your application.

To support your application, please include a brief statement that is either:

  • a statement confirming out-of-home care from a community or government organisation (current or previous order) or 
  • a personal impact statement along with a statement of support from a responsible person.

Apply now

Assessment & selection

  • All applications will be submitted to VU’s Scholarships office to verify eligibility.
  • Applications will be processed on a first-in, first-serve basis to eligible candidates until all funding has been exhausted.
  • Shortlisted applications will be have a final assessment completed by a representative from the VU Scholarships Office along with representatives from the Student Wellbeing team.